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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Santa Ana

Dinner spots

The kitchen is empty and the thought of cooking feels like a chore. A proper meal out is the only way to reset before tomorrow.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Kabo Kitchen image 1
Kabo Kitchen image 2
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Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean and Mexican flavors shine with lamb gyros and fish tacos in a lively, clean space. Drive-thru service and affordable prices make dining easy. Enjoy dinner with chicken plate options amid 80's music and a welcoming vibe.

Dinner features chicken plate and battered fish tacos. It suits both lunch and dinner well.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fresh and delicious."

"I found the burgers here delicious and cooked amazingly."

"The dinner spots here are fantastic and healthy."

Good to know

1

They offer Taco Tuesday with $2 tacos.

2

The chicken kabob plate only costs $14.

3

The steak bowl costs less than $10.

02
Gokumi Ramen & Yakitori image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Small space with an open kitchen and bar seating creates an authentic Japanese izakaya vibe. Late weekend hours make it easy to grab dinner even when plans run late. Enjoy well-crafted yakitori, a notable sake selection, and a cozy lively atmosphere with DJs.

Late weekend hours make it easy to grab dinner even when plans run late. The spot offers a chill atmosphere ideal for relaxed meals with friends.

People are saying

"The yakitori here is some of the best I've had outside of Japan."

"It's a laid-back spot to chill with your crew and lose track of time."

"The ramen, sushi, and yakitori dinner spots here are all delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.

2

Parking is limited, so arrive early or consider alternative transport.

3

Expect to spend over $100 for two people on average.

03
Fat of the Land image 1
Restaurant

Small restaurant with intimate atmosphere and velvet drapes offers tapas-style plates perfect for dinner with friends. Cozy setting suits post-work drinks and relaxed gatherings. Warm decor blends elegance and comfort.

Offers a casual vibe suited for small parties and dinners with friends. Serves well for post-work drinks and relaxed gatherings.

People are saying

"The wine here is served with such a welcoming and helpful attitude."

"It's the perfect romantic setting for a date night."

"The small plates and tapas are great for sharing at these dinner spots."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to guarantee a seat due to limited capacity.

2

Parking is available around the building, but metered parking may be necessary.

3

The menu features changing items, offering new dishes regularly.

04
Kebab Kurry Express image 1
Afghan restaurant

Cozy Afghan restaurant offers traditional decor and soft lighting for a warm dinner setting. Family-run with spacious seating and Afghan art creates a quiet, inviting space. Gentle music enhances a relaxed, authentic cultural experience.

Cozy and inviting ambiance with traditional Afghan decor sets a relaxed mood for dinner. Suitable for intimate dinners or gatherings with friends and family.

People are saying

"I found the Afghan food here to be really delicious and authentic."

"The Mediterranean food here is amazing, especially the tender and flavorful kebabs."

"This dinner spot offers a spiritual awakening with poetry on your palate."

Good to know

1

A single to-go order feeds two to three people.

2

Prices are generally higher compared to other Afghan restaurants in the area.

3

Expect to pay around $147 for a meal for four.

05
Papa K's Mediterranean Kitchen image 1

Small restaurant with authentic Egyptian dรฉcor offers a cozy vibe and large portions perfect for dinner. Friendly staff and big screen TVs create energy, while space allows for dancing after dinner.

Menu offers variety for all occasions from romantic dinners to casual lunches. Portions come large enough for leftovers and the space includes room to dance after dinner.

People are saying

"This Mediterranean food is delicious and generously portioned."

"I had the best grilled fish in California; it was so flavorful."

"The pita bread here is fantastic, puffy and hot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially for special menu items after 7 pm.

2

The restaurant is closed during lunch hours, so plan accordingly.

3

Expect large portion sizes that provide good value for the price.

06
Bangkok Kitchen image 1
Thai restaurant

Cozy space with a hip atmosphere and lively music sets a fun mood. Dinner shines with sticky rice that elevates flavors. Photos of dishes add a casual, intimate touch, but strong kitchen aromas can affect comfort.

Dinner here pairs well with sticky rice for a next-level meal. Arriving before the lunch and dinner rushes helps avoid the crowd.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was delicious and amazing."

"The Pad Thai service is friendly and personal."

"I loved my yummy dinner, every dish was a 10/10."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so arrive early to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant has about 10 tables, making it cozy but potentially crowded.

3

Expect to pay around $100 for a family of four without appetizers or desserts.

07
Soltani Restaurant image 1
Persian restaurant

Cozy dining space offers a quiet vibe and homely atmosphere. Kind owner Mohammad ensures a friendly vibe for dinner. Perfect for a solid meal after work in a relaxed setting.

Kind owner Mohammad creates a welcoming atmosphere for dinner. The spot offers a solid meal option after work with a friendly vibe.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and tasted so fresh."

"The owner's kind gestures made the hummus experience feel so personal."

"The owner's kindness makes these dinner spots feel so special."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers Halal Persian Mediterranean cuisine with generous portion sizes.

2

Prices are considered fair for the amount of food served.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but it's good to check for mobile payment options.

08
Papi Tacos & Churros image 1
Taco restaurant

Bright, clean space with large windows and cozy industrial style suits both quiet afternoons and lively dinners. Halal Mexican food offers flavorful tacos and birria, perfect for quick family meals or casual dining. Modern Mexican music adds to the vibrant atmosphere.

Offers a quick and satisfying option for last-minute dinners. Suitable for family meals and casual dining with Mexican-inspired dishes.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so flavorful and packed with meat."

"I found the authentic Mexican halal food here to be awesome."

"The birria tacos and consome are flavorful and exceptional."

Good to know

1

On weekends, they have a pop-up BBQ menu served from the side window.

2

The burritos are made with halal meat, but certification is not visibly displayed.

3

The place is very clean, providing a pleasant dining experience.

09
Fresh Off the Boat Fish Grill South Coast image 1

Eclectic Mediterranean spot shines with cozy patio seating and warm candlelight. Dinner here suits family sharing and repeat visits with varied fast-casual meals. Indoor bar offers a lively atmosphere with loud music and sports on a large TV.

Offers dinner options suitable for eating out close to home. Serves meals that encourage repeat visits and family sharing.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The dinner spots here have delicious, flavorful seafood and great sauces."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers a great variety of tacos at discounted prices.

2

Dine-in specials on Taco Tuesday are not available for takeout.

3

Happy hour starts after 3:00 pm with beer specials.

10
The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill - Santa Ana, CA image 1

Casual dining with Mediterranean decor creates a warm vibe. Dinner features huge portions but ends early by 8 pm. Outdoor seating adds a relaxed option for gatherings with soft Greek music.

Dinner options come with huge portions that often leave leftovers. The spot closes early, shutting down by 8 pm, so dinner service is limited.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and fresh."

"I loved the gyro with the fresh ingredients and feta cheese."

"The dinner portions here are huge; you'll have leftovers!"

Good to know

1

There was plenty of parking space available.

2

The restaurant is very clean, including the restrooms.

3

It was easy to park nearby.

11
El Barco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Black-painted walls set a super aesthetic vibe perfect for dinner with friends or family. Jukebox plays 80's hits and oldies funk, creating a fun, lively atmosphere without loud noise. Big seating fits groups well, and local beer complements the relaxed dinner experience.

Suitable for occasional dinners with friends or family, offering a relaxed spot to catch up. Local beer and drinks pair well with the dinner options.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is fresh and authentic."

"I thought the food here was delicious."

"The food at these dinner spots is delicious, especially the pasta and ceviche."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Karaoke is available on Thursdays starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

3

There is ample parking available for guests.

12
Benjies NY Deli image 1
Restaurant

Old-style New York deli shines with classic diner ambiance and retro booths. Dinner features hearty meals like large Ruben sandwich and corned beef with cabbage. Cozy vibe is boosted by 70s music and a small, intimate bar.

Dinner offers hearty options like a large Ruben sandwich and a corned beef and cabbage St. Patrick's dinner served with pea soup. Portions suit both lunch and dinner needs.

People are saying

"This deli's pastrami and corned beef sandwiches are piled so high."

"The Jewish deli food here is authentic New York flavor."

"I found the Ruben sandwich at this dinner spot to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm daily.

2

Expect prices around $19-$20 for sandwiches.

3

Children eat free with an adult entree on certain days.

13
Dvine Mediterranean Experience image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean spot shines with a cozy patio and laid back vibe perfect for casual dinners or quick meals. Enjoy lively music that invites dancing and a sweet finish with baklava. Ideal for relaxed dates or friendly lunches.

Dinner offers a casual vibe suited for dates and quick meals. Baklava serves as a notable sweet finish that can be enjoyed later as a small lunch.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food, especially the kebabs and hummus, was fantastic."

"I loved the fresh and flavorful Mediterranean salad."

"The chicken shawarma pita pocket for dinner is yummy."

Good to know

1

Parking is ample, but it gets busy around lunchtime.

2

The best time to visit is before or after the lunch rush.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of grilled meat and side options.

14
Le Hut Dinette image 1
Restaurant

Renovated quonset hut shines with 1950s diner style and a vibey atmosphere. Dinner features shareable dishes and standout lamb. Outdoor seating is best to enjoy the personable service and unique vibe.

Dinner offers a genuine experience with shareable dishes and standout lamb. Service is personable, creating a fantastic atmosphere.

People are saying

"The bread and lamb were standouts at this dinner spot."

"The American Food patty melt and fries were the best parts."

"The smoked pastrami sandwich has a great flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are definitely needed to dine here, especially during peak hours.

2

Street parking is available nearby, but it can be limited during busy times.

3

The fried chicken sandwich often sells out, so arrive early to get one.

15
The Boiling Crab image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood lovers enjoy life-size shark decor and a friendly vibe in a casual, open-door setting. Dinner draws large crowds with long waits, perfect for groups seeking a relaxed meal. TVs show sports, adding to the lively, chill atmosphere.

Dinner here draws large crowds, often requiring a two-hour wait without a reservation. It suits groups like families or friends looking for a casual meal together.

People are saying

"I found the seafood boil here to be the best I've tried."

"The wait times here are so long, I check Yelp before I go."

"The seafood dinner spots here are so fresh, especially the oysters."

Good to know

1

During celebrations like Fatherโ€™s Day, the waiting time can be up to 2 hours and 30 minutes.

2

On weekends, you have to make a reservation to dine there.

3

The restaurant opens at 3 PM on weekdays.

16
Antonello Ristorante image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant shines with tableside pasta, creating a romantic ambiance perfect for dinner. Attentive service and mid-century modern decor make every meal feel special. Upstairs and downstairs seating offer a cozy yet roomy vibe with rustic elegance.

Every course impresses with amazing quality and thoughtful preparation. Guests receive attentive service that makes dinners feel special and memorable.

People are saying

"The fresh pasta here is made daily and melts in your mouth."

"The service here is outstandingly friendly and attentive."

"The dinner spots here treat you like royalty and make you feel welcomed."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy nights like Saturday.

2

The restaurant has private dining rooms available for larger groups.

3

Expect to pay a $35 corkage fee if you bring your own wine.

17
DIN KY Vietnamese Restaurant image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Spacious dining room with beautiful decoration offers a cheerful, clean atmosphere for groups. Flavorful, homemade-style pho and unique goat curry stand out. Late hours and affordable prices make it perfect for late-night dinners without crowds.

Late hours make it easy to grab a late-night dinner. Prices stay affordable and the place stays uncrowded during dinner on both weekdays and weekends.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic Vietnamese."

"This place is my favorite late night spot for delicious food."

"The dinner spots here serve delicious, authentic Vietnamese dishes."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open until 2 am on weekends.

2

Parking is limited; consider parking next door.

3

A take-out fee and tip fee are automatically added to orders.

18
Kannappa Catering & Indian Cuisine image 1

Shared kitchen offers authentic South Indian cuisine with pickup-only service. Unique dishes like biryani and chocolate dosa bring strong traditional spices. Meals arrive warm, perfect for dinner spots despite an unsettling, isolated atmosphere.

Catered meals include South Indian food with a focus on appetizers and dinner. Food arrives with attention to temperature, ensuring it stays warm for guests.

People are saying

"This food feels like a warm hug, seasoned with kindness."

"I thought the biryani here was one of the best I'd ever had."

"I found the Dinner Spots here were so delicious and generously served."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is a pickup-only establishment with no dine-in options.

2

There are no restrooms available at the restaurant.

3

This location is not safe at night due to lack of security.

19
I Can Barbecue- Korean Grill image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Robot servers add a unique tech touch while Korean dรฉcor creates a vibrant atmosphere. Dinner features excellent Korean grill with all-day weekend pricing. Spacious seating and cool air keep it comfortable and quick even when busy.

Dinner offers excellent Korean grill with weekend pricing all day. Seating is quick even on busy days.

People are saying

"This Korean BBQ is fresh, flavorful, and worth the money."

"The wagyu here is so marbled and decadent, it's a perfect date spot."

"The robot bringing dinner spots' meats was a neat feature."

Good to know

1

Dinner pricing applies all day on weekends.

2

The all-you-can-eat option is available for $50.99 per person.

3

A service fee of $80 is automatically added to the bill.

20
Perla Mexican Cuisine image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant shines with live mariachi music and a bohemian vibe outdoors. Dinner comes fast, served by helpful staff in an intimate atmosphere. Spanish tunes add charm without overpowering conversation.

Dinner arrives promptly even when busy. Staff provide helpful service and create an intimate atmosphere with fun, not too loud music.

People are saying

"The live Mariachi music really made the Mexican food experience amazing."

"Our servers were friendly, attentive, and made sure we had everything."

"The dinner spots here are amazing; the staff went above and beyond for our event."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounts on drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm daily.

2

Mariachi bands perform on weekends, enhancing the dining experience.

3

Parking is available at a garage right behind the restaurant.

21
An Noodles and Pho image 1

Small, modern space offers a warm atmosphere with unlimited noodle refills and complimentary drinks. Perfect for casual dinners with friends and family, though expect a wait during rush hours. Takeout pho has a small extra charge at dinner time.

Clean and welcoming atmosphere suits casual dinners with friends and family. Expect a possible wait during the dinner rush and a small extra charge for takeout pho at dinner time.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here has an amazing, flavorful broth."

"I loved the bottomless pho noodles, they just kept refilling them!"

"The pho broth here is rich, aromatic, and made with care."

Good to know

1

They are currently running a buy one, get one for $1 deal on pho.

2

Expect unlimited noodles with your pho order during the promotion.

3

The buy-one-get-one for $1 deal excludes the House special pho.

22
NORMS Restaurant image 1

Classic diner with retro decor and a 24-hour vibe offers a lively, cozy spot downtown. Dinner features hearty pork chop and ham and eggs with hashbrowns, perfect for late meals. Friendly staff and good music create a fun, welcoming atmosphere.

Old style dinner decor creates a comfortable setting for meals. Dinner options like the pork chop and ham and eggs with hashbrowns offer filling, flavorful choices suitable for late nights.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and always prepared just how I like it."

"The staff here is so kind and friendly with kids."

"The dinner spots here are great because the servers are so welcoming."

Good to know

1

NORMS Restaurant is open 24/7, allowing for meals at any time.

2

On Friday nights, enjoy a two-for-one special for $13.99, including dessert.

3

Expect a wait time of under 10 minutes during busy morning brunch hours.

23
MasalaCraft - Santa Ana image 1
Indian restaurant

Bollywood posters create a themed atmosphere with a friendly vibe. Outdoor patio offers relaxed seating for dinner. Staff like Edward provide helpful service and free toppings add a unique touch.

Dinner offers good food suitable for a quick meal. Outdoor seating provides a relaxed atmosphere. Staff members like Edward assist with menu choices.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"The lunch combo here is a great deal."

"Edward's service for dinner spots was great and attentive."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available on Saturdays from 11 am to 5 pm.

2

The lunch special with garlic naan and an order of samosas costs around $16.

3

Parking is generally easy on Sundays.

24
Tan Cang Newport Seafood image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood shines with signature lobster dishes in a casual, welcoming spot. Outdoor seating with heaters creates a cozy vibe for family dinners. Busy evenings show its popularity as a top dinner spot.

Dinner hours get very busy here. The spot serves good seafood dinners and has been a family favorite for evening meals.

People are saying

"The food here is consistently fresh and delicious."

"The lobster here is huge and packed with meat."

"I loved the lobster preparations for dinner spots here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended before 5pm to avoid long wait times.

2

Parking can be difficult to find during peak hours.

3

Lobster is sold by weight, with prices around $33 per pound.

25
Tacos Los Cholos - Santa ana image 1

Spacious Mexican spot shines with painted murals and an open kitchen grilling meats. Dinner features tacos perfect for groups, though service can be slow. Outdoor heated patio adds comfort to lively, chill vibes.

Tacos Los Cholos serves tacos for dinner and suits groups like families or friends. Service can be slow, which affected some diners' meal choices.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were the best I ever had."

"This burrito is packed with flavor and incredibly satisfying."

"The food here is incredible, especially the rib eye tacos."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during weekends as the restaurant gains popularity.

2

Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak hours.

3

Payment is required at the table before sending orders to the kitchen.

26
Niki's Halal Grill & Karahi - Authentic Pakistani and Indian Food image 1

Small halal spot offers authentic Pakistani flavors in a cozy, family-run setting. Dinner is quick with pickup convenience but leans pricey and lacks combos. Casual vibe and limited seating make it a simple, no-frills choice.

Dinner options come without combo meals and lean toward the pricey side. Food is available for quick pickup, making it convenient for a fast dinner.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and authentically Pakistani."

"I've never had kheer this creamy and delicious before."

"The dinner spots here have excellent, flavorful food."

Good to know

1

Expect high prices for menu items, especially the chicken karahi.

2

Portion sizes are smaller than expected for the price.

3

The dining area may not be well-maintained or clean.

27
Black Angus Steakhouse image 1

Steakhouse features old west interior and private cozy booths for a calm, family-friendly vibe. Dinner shines with consistent quality perfect for special occasions like birthdays. Bar area adds a casual, fun element with sports on TV.

Dinner offers consistent quality with meals enjoyed on special occasions like Mother's Day and birthdays. The menu suits celebratory dinners and memorable final nights out.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here are super delicious."

"It's a quiet place, perfect for conversation."

"The desserts here are like a childhood dream, especially the chocolate chip cookie with ice cream."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to avoid long wait times.

2

Happy hour specials are available daily from 4-6pm with discounted drinks.

3

Kids' meals are priced between $6-8, making it family-friendly.

28
Denny's image 1
Restaurant

Cozy spot with a warm atmosphere and attentive service. Staff like Danielle and Gerardo handle dinner groups with care. Quiet and relaxed, perfect for casual meals any time.

Dinner service features attentive staff who handle large groups smoothly. The team, including Danielle, Tania, and Gerardo, provides prompt and caring attention during meals.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and fresh."

"The staff here is so attentive and friendly with kids."

"The servers here are amazing and attentive during dinner."

Good to know

1

Denny's is open 24/7, making it convenient for any meal.

2

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible for those with mobility needs.

3

Parking accessibility at Denny's is excellent, with ample space available.

29
Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken image 1

Southern-style fried chicken shines with bold flavor and spicy heat in a casual spot. Dinner offers hearty portions like an 8-piece meal around $30, perfect for families. Blues music sets a cool atmosphere while Louisiana hot sauce adds authentic zest.

Dinner features fried chicken served in portions like an 8-piece or 2-piece wing and breast. Meals cost around $30 and attract families for casual dinners.

People are saying

"This fried chicken is juicy, spicy, and perfectly crispy."

"The coleslaw is chopped cabbage in a creamy dressing."

"The chicken at these dinner spots is so juicy and has some heat."

Good to know

1

Gus's offers a special menu from Monday to Thursday between 2 and 5 PM.

2

Parking was easy at Gus's.

3

Food takes a little time since the chicken is fried to order.

30
Tandoori India Cuisine image 1
North Indian restaurant

Cozy spot with a star on the wall offers affordable lunch specials and generous wine pours. Dinner shines with Matter Paneer and Tandoori cuisine perfect for families. Fresh herbs add a bright touch to every meal.

Dinner includes Matter Paneer as a notable dish. The spot serves Tandoori cuisine suitable for family meals.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has amazing, affordable lunch specials."

"The Indian pickles were a crowd favorite with our dinner spots."

"I tried the Chicken Tikka Masala and it was the best I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available before 3 pm with a 2-item combo.

2

Takeout process is easy and reliable for quick meals.

3

The restaurant offers a vegan section on the menu with many options.

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Santa Ana, California

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